Pietracupa is one of Campania's most celebrated estates and a benchmark producer in the Irpinia region. Founded by Sabino Loffredo in Montefredane in the early 1990s, the winery has earned an international reputation for producing terroir-driven wines that emphasise purity, precision and longevity. While Pietracupa is best known for its acclaimed Fiano di Avellino and Greco di Tufo, Loffredo has also demonstrated the remarkable potential of Aglianico through Quirico, a wine that captures the freshness and structure of the variety without the extended ageing required for Taurasi. The vineyards are organically farmed on clay, limestone and volcanic soils, and winemaking follows a minimalist philosophy with indigenous yeasts and restrained use of oak.

Made from 100% Aglianico, Quirico is a medium- to full-bodied red that showcases the grape's vibrant fruit alongside its naturally firm structure. Fermentation takes place with indigenous yeasts before maturation in oak, allowing the wine to retain freshness while softening its tannins. Compared with Taurasi, Quirico is released earlier and offers a more approachable interpretation of Aglianico, balancing dark fruit, savoury spice and lively acidity with excellent ageing potential.

Deep ruby with purple highlights. The bouquet opens with aromas of ripe black cherry, wild blackberry and plum, layered with violet, cracked black pepper, graphite and sweet spice. With time in the glass, hints of leather, tobacco and balsamic herbs emerge. The palate is structured yet refined, combining concentrated dark berry fruit with vibrant acidity and polished tannins. Notes of liquorice, earth and volcanic minerality add depth, while the finish is long, savoury and persistent with lingering spice and pepper. Elegant yet powerful, it is a compelling expression of Irpinian Aglianico.